Karate Essence ‘Reality Check’ Tora Guchi/Tigers’ Jaws
- TD McKinnon
- Jul 30
- 10 min read
Updated: Aug 1
Karate Essence Reality Check
Tiger mouth Strike
Editing by Zoё Lake
The Tiger's Mouth Strike is a potentially lethal self-defense technique, but it could be a lifesaver.
Known by several names, this is the kind of tool that can, theoretically, level any playing field. Quite literally, anyone can learn to use this weapon in the space of one training lesson. However, for obvious reasons, it’s usually only advanced practitioners of any art who are taught or come across it in advanced Kata/Taolu/forms. My only exception to that generally held opinion is when I teach it to a Ladies' Self-Defence class.
Table of contents
Fighting or Self-Defence
Shotokan, Kokō Uchi/Tora Guchi
Tae Kwon Do, Tiger Mouth Strike
Goju Ryu, Tora Guchi
Tan Dao Kung Fu, Hu Kou
Self-Defence Schools Tiger’s Mouth Strike
Torakan Eye View
Conclusion
Fighting or Self-Defence
I don’t think there is much doubt about whether this technique is a Fighting or a Self-Defence weapon. Once you learn to use this properly and accurately (and I’ve already said that, in a very short space of time, it can be learned by virtually anyone) it can be, quite literally, devastating. I know that that claim is made far too often about so many martial arts techniques, and I usually refrain from using it, but - for this particular weapon - this time it is accurate.
Of course, it would need to be practiced repetitively to work in an adverse situation when needed… for instance, when your life is in extreme danger and you need to stop an assailant quickly and definitively. We could talk about what that last sentence means in terms of what kind of danger and what would warrant that kind of action; however, for this article, we’ll leave it there.
Shotokan, Kokō Uchi
Within most Shotokan systems, Kokō Uchi or Tora Guchi/Tiger Mouth Strike is taught only to advanced grades; if indeed it is taught at all. In fact most Shotokan systems leave you to discover this technique in some of the advanced Kata when you study the Bunkai (Bunkai (分解), ‘Analysis’ or ‘Disassembly’). The fact that this technique is in various Kata means, of course, that it is a self-defence weapon.
There are some Shotokan systems that do focus on realistic self-defence; the emphasis there being on 'some'. Those Shotokan organisations would be the ones mainly interested in Budō Karate, as opposed to competition Karate.
If you consider that, at least up to and including Shodan, most students are concentrating on copying their instructor, then of course it all centres on what those instructors consider important. Eventually, you find your own level, your own goals, and your own martial path.
In Shotokan, Kokō Uchi is a simple but dangerous self-defence weapon that is rarely focussed on outside of Kata training. The first of the following two links is a Shotokan Kata, Nijushiho, where several Tora Guchi are performed in the Kata. In the second clip, a basic Kokō Uchi is being practiced; note the slight difference in the hand position.
Tae Kwon Do, Tiger’s Mouth Strike
I like to include a mention of the technique that I am researching for the ‘Reality Check’ with any styles that use it and have a modicum of popularity on the wider world stage of martial arts. However, I must admit that I was a little surprised to see this technique mentioned in the Tae Kwon Do curriculum. Much like the Shotokan curriculum, the Tiger Mouth Strike is not in the main part of their training, but their self-defence training certainly does embrace it. I don’t know enough about their Kata or, more correctly, Poomse; however, as they borrowed a lot from the Shotokan System back in the 1950s when first codifying Tae Kwon Do, I would say that there would be a Tiger’s Mouth strike or two somewhere in their Poomse.
The following link contains a short Tae Kwon Do Demonstration of their Tiger’s Mouth Strike.
Goju Ryu, Tora Guchi
In the Goju Ryu system, there are many Kata that contain variations of Tora Guchi; and the Tiger’s Mouth technique is generally part of smooth transitions, within combinations, of variable hand techniques that the Goju Ryu practice. Tora Guchi is much more prevalent in Goju Kata than in Shotokan Kata.
Goju also work their Kata Bunkai much more into their self-defence techniques, and their Karate has a more close-quarter feel to it. That propensity is especially so with those Goju associations with strong connections to Okinawa, the birthplace of Japanese Karate.
Okinawan Karate tends to still focus mainly on the self-defence roots of Karate, rather than the sport, and so the training is a very serious affair. The focus is on self-preservation, but the techniques are developed to end a conflict quickly and decisively. Effectively, when applied in a real-world self-defense situation, the results can be severe. The following link is to a clip that shows those training combinations I mentioned.
Tan Dao Kung Fu, Hu Kou/Tiger Mouth Strike
The original Tiger Mouth’s legendary use does not stop with the contact of the hand meeting the pharynx. At the instant of contact, the hand would then grip with the fingers around the oesophagus and pull, breaking the oesophagus and windpipe as a tiger would rip out a throat; this, inevitably, would result in fatality.
I have no idea of the validity of the following statement, but I was told by one so-called expert that... "it takes 5lb (2.26796 Kilos) of pressure to break the trachea with the forward strike, and 10lb (4.53592 Kilos) of pressure to rip it out in the reverse action."
Still referred to as a ‘Tiger mouth strike’, this technique is, of course, no longer taught in the above way in most Kung Fu schools. The Hu Kou technique finishes as the web of the hand, between the thumb and forefinger, strikes the throat. Also, even this modified technique is not supposed to be used, unless in the case of a life or death situation; and then only to allow the ‘would-be’ victim of the attack to escape.
The following is a short tutorial on the Tan Dau Tiger Mouth Strike.
Self-Defence Schools, Tiger’s Mouth Strike
During my ‘Reality Check’ research, I occasionally come across, and consequently feature, various schools of thought that are not what you would call traditional martial arts schools. In this month’s Blog post, I am doing this section on various self-defence classes that feature the very technique that is the ‘Reality Check’ technique this month.
At Code Red Defence, in the USA, there is no pretence of being anything but a 'save your life in an adverse situation establishment'; and I appreciate their candour: Throat Strike.
Rapid Fighting Self-Defence Training Program, again in the USA, run a specific program for oldies featuring (guess what) the Throat Strike.
SELF DEFENSE for the REAL WORLD
In this video, Professor Lorne Therrien Sr. demonstrates four of the most effective self-defense throat strikes; with the advice that these strikes should only be used in the most adverse situations, where there is an immediate and serious threat to life. Also, with a warning that these techniques can cause significant injury or even death. Proper training is essential, they advise, to ensure control; and the understanding as to when such a strike is necessary and justified.
Torakan Eye View
It seems, and for some pretty obvious reasons, that the Tiger’s Mouth Strike (or whatever you choose to call it) is almost totally ignored in the modern martial arts’ curriculum. It is, again obviously, not taught in the combat sports, MMA, et cetera. It is also quite restricted in its dissemination in the traditional martial arts community.
During my research, and once again for obvious reasons, the Tiger’s Mouth Strike comes up as a ‘strictly self-defence technique’, in seriously adverse circumstances. A powerful and dangerous technique; I teach this technique when I run ‘Ladies Self-defence Classes, because I feel that, in today's current climate, a female needs an edge. In general now, I teach Tora Guchi to my most senior, mature students, with the odd exception, for various reasons.
By spreading the thumb and forefinger, the hand forms a ‘C’, ‘L’, or ‘V’ shape, and the Tiger reference comes from someone’s imagination that it resembles an open Tiger’s jaw. Or the fact that an original Shaolin technique was initially meant to be more definitively fatal. This part of the hand is surprisingly robust and perfectly shaped for striking or seizing cylindrical targets like the throat or an opponent's wrist. In various martial arts, including Karate, it is a versatile tool for strikes, chokes, and joint locks.
Intended only for situations of grave and imminent danger, its primary target is one of the most vulnerable parts of the human body… the throat. A powerful strike can directly impact the trachea, carotid arteries, and the vagus nerve: the vagus nerve is located on both sides of the neck, running vertically within the carotid sheath, between the internal jugular vein and the internal carotid artery.
It is completely understandable why any technique designed to attack such a vulnerable organ would be treated with extreme caution. However, for someone being attacked in such a way that they fear for their very life, this self-defence technique might be a lifesaver.
The following examples, featuring short video clips, are just some of the ways in which we at Torakan utilise the Tiger’s Mouth Strike/Tora Guchi in self-defence situations:
Conclusion
In conclusion, I don’t think there can be any doubt about the category of the Tiger’s Mouth Strike. It is definitely a self-defence weapon, and should be considered extremely dangerous to use. I keep coming back to the same expression, in one way or another. I truly believe in all the hype that comes from almost every single martial arts practitioner I have come across on my long Budōka Path; and also through my recent research.
As always, my advice for what it’s worth is to never stop studying, keep your choices open by learning every angle of your craft and, when you learn something, make sure you learn it well enough to earn a place in your Mushin treasure chest.
Thank You
A big thank you to our demonstrators from the Torakan Karateka; without whose assistance of course the ‘Reality Check’ Blog would be sadly lacking. Assisting me this month were Tyler, Rahul, Alan, and Zeke. Also, a special thank you to Kelly, our technical wiz.
Thank You to the Readers
As always, thank you for following the Karate Essence 'Reality Check' Blog post.
Thank you also for continuing to support my latest book, ‘A Budōka Odyssey’. The reviews continue to be excellent!
Top reviews from Australia
Reviewed in Australia on 8 April 2025
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This book is easy to read in short or long sessions - such an inspirational life story of an amazing guy. Well worth the read.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed in Australia on 28 May 2024
Written by a man who has lived the life of a modern warrior. His ability to recognise the lessons and gifts in any situation and the having the humility to seek out those who can help you better yourself are important traits we should all endeavour to achieve not just in our own martial arts’ odyssey but in life.
Top reviews from the United Kingdom
Carl Slee
5.0 out of 5 stars
‘A Fascinating Book’
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 October 2024
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A fascinating book, and not just for those interested in martial arts. Although if you are, this is one of those rare books that will help in not just the development of karate skills but in the facilitation of those psychological states (rarely discussed) of the true karateka.
From early childhood to the present day, Shihan McKinnon shares his adventures as, Truant, Soldier, Nightclub bouncer and Bodyguard as well as Business man but always as a fighter. And in this book he shares with us the ‘gifts’ and ‘Lessons’ that come from such a ‘life worth lived’.
A rare book, in that I found myself re-reading pages, chapters or passages over and over to further understand how such insights related to my own life. And this is the ‘gift’ of this book, I think that each person, whatever gender, age or interest will find something at some point within it, that is very personal and that will reverberate for them, long after reading.
Thank you Shihan
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 July 2024
I have to say that I found this book to be compulsive reading. For someone who was born and raised in the West of Scotland I was immediately drawn to T.D. McKinnon’s Scottish roots. He writes in such a concise and realistic manner. As someone with no knowledge of karate and martial arts, I have nevertheless found the main themes of the book easy to follow and this has made me review experiences drawn from my own life. The concept of ‘gifts and lessons’ applies to all life, not just karate. I would recommend this book to anyone, particularly those who are deeply involved in a sport of any kind, and who is striving to be the best person they can be. Read, learn and enjoy.
Thank you for this book, T.D. McKinnon.
Top review from the United States
Minimal shopper
5.1 out of 5 stars
‘A Fine Man Shares a Life of Budō’
Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2024
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At over 500 pages there is a lot of content in this autobiographical journey. A quick overview is as follows:
Author Shihan TD McKinnon has had ALOT of fights in his life; starting under the age of 6! He tells the narrative of his life through all those fights and what he learned about himself and life along the way. I appreciate that he doesn’t make self-defense fighting seem glamorous and one sided. He talks about injuries, dangers, and making alternate choices to physical violence as a reality.
This book emphasizes lessons like ‘never quit’, ‘move on to the next venture’, ‘stay in the moment and learn what you can along the way’. I recommend it for young and old, karate people and non-karate folks. He carries the journey into today with a very relevant subject - training and aging. Take it on your next plane trip, or beach vacation. And if you’re a karate instructor, you can work it into your teaching.
This book does not disappoint!
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